The popular version of this traditional American folk song is attributed to Leadbelly, who claims he learned it from his uncle. John Lomax recorded Leadbelly singing the song in 1936; he and Leadbelly are the legal authors. It was made popular by The Weavers in 1950 with slightly altered lyrics, but has been recorded by numerous artists. It is probably based on a similar 1886 song by Gussie L. Davis.